Balblair — Malthound

Sampling Two New Whisky Exchange ‘Exclusives’ – Balblair 2005 & Arran 1996 – Rare Summer Treats!

June 8, 2021 by Gary Leave a Comment

More Whisky Exchange ‘Exclusives’!

The Whisky Exchange has released two more drams in it’s popular ‘Exclusives’ range!

First up is an ex-bourbon-matured Balblair 2005. Wonderfully fruity and a release that truly shows off a side of the distillery that is often overlooked.

The second dram is a 1996 Vintage Arran – matured in what The Whisky Exchange thinks was a wine cask – Arran’s records apparently are a bit spotty back in the early days of filling, and the exact cask type isn’t known!

The Whisky Exchange has kindly sent me a sample of each one to try (Thanks @WhiskyExchange!)

So, what did I think? Here are my tasting notes …

Tasting Notes – Balblair 2005 – Whisky Exchange Exclusive (46%)

Balblair 2005

Region: Highland
Matured in a single cask
Cask Number: 213
Bottled: 2021

Not chill-filtered
Natural colour
180 bottles available

The Balblair retails at £145

Nose: Gorgeous aromatic fruits! Ripe & ready pears, green apples topped off with cane sugar syrup.

Palate: Sweet pears and apples, a little liquorice and shades of blackcurrant.

Finish: Punchy spice tempered with those pears. Grapefruit adds some dryness at the end.

Overall: Another quality dram from The Whisky Exchange’s ‘Exclusives’ range that doesn’t disappoint. The fruit flavours are the highlight of this dram – those pear aromas are amazing! A fresh, light whisky that’s perfect for the Summer – and long may the Sun shine!

Tasting Notes – Arran 1996: 24 Years Old – Whisky Exchange Exclusive (53.4%)

Arran 1996: 24 Years Old

Region: Island
Matured in a wine cask (possibly!)
Cask Number: 757
Bottled: March 2021

Not chill-filtered
Natural colour
273 bottles available

The Arran retails at £199

Nose: Powerful spiced orange that really dominates the nose – but only in a good way! Toffee with slight hints of smoke.

Palate: Rich mouthfeel, lots of orange, sweet vanilla, and plump fruits.

Finish: A little pepper to add to the finish but in the main it’s the initial palate that continues through to the end.

Overall: A beautiful dram! Incredibly morish and satisfying. It’s a rare treat at the price I know – but what a treat!

Once again, many thanks to The Whisky Exchange (@WhiskyExchange) for the tasters!

Edencrofts New anCnoc & Balblair Arrivals – Did Someone Mention Xmas?!

December 16, 2014 by Gary Leave a Comment

Balblair 1990 Vintage / 2nd Release

Supplier	Brand	Price
Edencroft	anCnoc 35 Year Old Single Malt Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: Year Old Strength: 44.3% Summary: anCnoc single malt is refreshingly light and modern, even though it's made using traditional methods. Their 12 and 16 Year Old bottlings have a clean, fresh character. However, this is the more mature 35 Years Old, their oldest offering yet. As you'd expect, it shows a richer, more complex personality. However the resemblance to the younger expressions is unmistakable. anCnoc 35 Years Old is bottled in its most natural state; cask strength, non-chill filtered and natural colour & is limited to only 1,495 bottles worldwide. Nose: Initial aromas of sweet wood, sticky toffee pudding and baked apples are followed quickly by ripe sultanas and honey. Fragrant orange oil and cinnamon gum come to the fore next with a hint of peppermint lingering in the background. A drop of water brings out honeysuckle, gooseberry and chocolate-covered papaya. Great complexity. Colour: A rich, inviting amber. Taste: It sure has some body to it! Spicy entry with cinnamon and white pepper. Rich Christmas cake and walnuts are followed by bitter orange chocolate, that really rich 70% cocoa stuff. Look for vanilla ice-cream and a zing of lime at the back. A palate and a half. The finish is intense and fizzy with flavours of spicy dried fruit, cocoa, citrus and nuts. Really long and very elegant.	£ 205.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	anCnoc Flaughter Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: Strength: 46% Summary: Peaty overview Under the watchful eye of the Distillery Manager – and after a few anxious moments – anCnoc Peaty emerged once more from the stills at Knockdhu. Once laid down in bourbon casks, it developed beautifully, creating the most remarkable malt. Dark peaty smokiness and light subtle flavours, as one. The spirit has found form in a new range of individual expressions named after traditional peat-cutting tools, some of which are still used to this day. For we have those simple implements to thank for the wonder that is the Limited Edition anCnoc Peaty Collection. All that remains is to try them – and shine a light on your dark side. creating anCnoc Peaty When Knockdhu Distillery opened its doors back in October 1894, peat was most commonly used as a source of fuel throughout the Highlands. There’s no doubt whisky made at Knockdhu was initially peaty but as time and technology moved on so did the production methods and with the dawn of specialist maltings the Knockdhu Distillery gradually moved to the unpeated style we associate with anCnoc Single Malt Scotch Whisky today. In homage to our malt’s peaty origins we have crafted a truly remarkable Limited Edition Peaty range. a craft? a science? both anCnoc Peaty brings together dark peaty smokiness and light subtle flavours, as one. Each bottle carries a note of the PPM (parts per million) phenol in the distilled spirit. In short, the higher the PPM levels, the peatier the whisky will be to taste and in turn helping you discover the perfect anCnoc Peaty expression to shine a light on your dark side. Colour: anCnoc Flaughter is pale gold. Nose: Initially smoky and ashy. Underneath that, fresh vanilla notes ooze softness and creaminess while a sharper hint of sticky toffee offers a balancing sweetness. Taste: A warming and smooth experience; peaty and intense but remarkably rounded, it flickers with hints of fragrant pipe tobacco, orchard fruits, brown sugar sweetness and a slight medicinal overtone. An intensely flavoursome, smoky and smooth finish.	£ 49.50 BUY NOW
Edencroft	anCnoc Rutter Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: Strength: 46% Summary: Peaty overview Under the watchful eye of the Distillery Manager – and after a few anxious moments – anCnoc Peaty emerged once more from the stills at Knockdhu. Once laid down in bourbon casks, it developed beautifully, creating the most remarkable malt. Dark peaty smokiness and light subtle flavours, as one. The spirit has found form in a new range of individual expressions named after traditional peat-cutting tools, some of which are still used to this day. For we have those simple implements to thank for the wonder that is the Limited Edition anCnoc Peaty Collection. All that remains is to try them – and shine a light on your dark side. creating anCnoc Peaty When Knockdhu Distillery opened its doors back in October 1894, peat was most commonly used as a source of fuel throughout the Highlands. There’s no doubt whisky made at Knockdhu was initially peaty but as time and technology moved on so did the production methods and with the dawn of specialist maltings the Knockdhu Distillery gradually moved to the unpeated style we associate with anCnoc Single Malt Scotch Whisky today. In homage to our malt’s peaty origins we have crafted a truly remarkable Limited Edition Peaty range. a craft? a science? both anCnoc Peaty brings together dark peaty smokiness and light subtle flavours, as one. Each bottle carries a note of the PPM (parts per million) phenol in the distilled spirit. In short, the higher the PPM levels, the peatier the whisky will be to taste and in turn helping you discover the perfect anCnoc Peaty expression to shine a light on your dark side. The Rutter spade is used to size and separate the peat blocks producing a turf that is slow burning. This peat creates less reek and therefore gives the whisky a more fragrant smokiness, in this case, with a PPM of 11.0. Colour: anCnoc Rutter is sparkling gold in appearance. Nose: Initially very smoky, it quickly unveils the unmistakable anCnoc character with delicate spices, juicy pineapples, peardrops and gentle vanilla. Rich and warming. Taste: Full-bodied and bursting with peaty richness. Soft undertones of honey, creamy vanilla, toffee and leather are punctuated by the freshness of green apples.	£ 60.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair 1975 Vintage / 2nd Release Country: Scotland Region: Highland Age: Strength: 46% Summary: The second release of Balblair 1975 was launched in February 2012 and replaced 1978. Typically fresh yet full bodied, this fine Balblair Vintage displays aromas of citrus fruits, vanilla, toffee and coconut. The second release of Balblair 1975 is a rich gold colour. Typically fresh yet full bodied, this fine Balblair vintage displays aromas of citrus fruits, vanilla, toffee and coconut. The American oak ex-sherry casks used in maturation impart a rich and sweet vanilla flavour. On the palate it is sweet and spicy; fresh fruits and honey combine with a slightly oaky note to create a long and warming finish.	£ 225.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair 1983 Vintage / 1st Release Country: Scotland Region: Highland Age: Strength: 46% Summary: 96.5 Points / Jim Murray's 2015 Whisky Bible. Appearance: the weight has been touched by a wand: Demerara enriched Dundee cake without a trace of dissention in the ranks. The gentle grapey, sultana notes are almost ghostlike and are happy to enjoy top billing with the candy store barley sugar and chocolate coconut. Almost impossible to describe the full story, as the changes with temperature can be as startling as they are beautiful. Touches greatness…; Aroma: an almost exact carbon copy of the nose on the palate, except here the mouth fell tallies exactly with the weight. The sugars dissolve disarmingly and the fruitiness is little more than the odd breeze. A little more spice, though, than can be detected nasally though this reveals a nimleness of Ali in his pomp. Taste: like lengthening shadows on a summer's evening, the oak begins to make itself slightly better known. The barley recedes, though leaving behind a gristiness enhanced by syrup-dank coconut flakes; Finish: very few malts are this comfortable, or vibrant, by the time they reach their third decade in the cask. A highland gathering of sensational casks resulting in a celebration of what great Scotch whisky is really all about. Magnificent. © Tasting Notes from Jim Murray's 2015 Whisky Bible.	£ 195.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair 1990 Vintage / 2nd Release Country: Scotland Region: Highland Age: Strength: 46% Summary: Matured in American oak ex-bourbon casks and Spanish oak ex-sherry butts Balblair Vintage 1990 2nd release is truly exceptional. Recently released to replace our award-winning 1989 Vintage, this incredible dram is sure to become a firm favourite amongst Balblair fans and whisky connoisseurs. The second release of Balblair 1990 is deep copper in appearance with hints of sparkling amber. Matured in 2nd fill American oak ex-bourbon casks and 1st fill Spanish oak ex-sherry butts. The aroma is spicy yet sweet & is punctuated with notes of raisins, toffee & honey. Hints of vanilla, chocolate & citrus fruits are also present. On the palate it’s full bodied; sweet & spicy in character with hints of honey, raisins & zesty fruits. The finish is smooth & long lasting.	£ 175.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair 1997 Vintage / 2nd Release Country: Scotland Region: Highland Age: Strength: 46% Summary: This exceptionally well balanced dram has been maturing in first fill American oak, ex bourbon barrels since 1997. The 2nd release of 1997 is on track to secure just as many recognitions and awards as the first release. Balblair 1997, 2nd release is deep golden amber in appearance. On the nose there is an abundance of tropical fruits; bananas and pineapple, together with green apples, oranges and apricots. Hints of honey, vanilla and butterscotch can also be detected. The taste is initially sweet, yet spicy and full bodied, which reflects the time spent maturing in first fill American, ex bourbon oak barrels. There is a long, spicy finish to this exceptionally well balanced, yet complex Vintage.	£ 60.00 BUY NOW

New Balblair & Kilchoman Malts From Edencrofts!

May 7, 2014 by Gary Leave a Comment

The Balblair – 1983 Vintage / 1st Release

Supplier	Brand	Bottle Size	Price
Edencroft	Balblair – 1975 Vintage / 2nd Release Country: Scotland Region: Highlands Age: 37 Year Old Strength: 46% Summary: The second release of Balblair 1975 was launched in February 2012 and replaced 1978. Typically fresh yet full bodied, this fine Balblair Vintage displays aromas of citrus fruits, vanilla, toffee and coconut. The second release of Balblair 1975 is a rich gold colour. Typically fresh yet full bodied, this fine Balblair vintage displays aromas of citrus fruits, vanilla, toffee and coconut. The American oak ex-sherry casks used in maturation impart a rich and sweet vanilla flavour. On the palate it is sweet and spicy; fresh fruits and honey combine with a slightly oaky note to create a long and warming finish. BALBLAIR DISTILLERY Exclusively Vintage: Each Balblair Vintage captures the essence of its year in a bottle. They’re only ever selected at the absolute peak of perfection. Handpicked, to represent the very best our Distillery has to offer. You’ll notice our bottles are not marked with an age statement, but simply with the year that the whisky was laid down. From then, every cask is sampled, judged and selected by John MacDonald to find its optimum maturation point. The point at which each Vintage says it’s ready. Our Whisky: Every distillery is different. From its location and water source, to its still shape and wood policy. These are all determining factors in its ultimate outcome – its taste. Our Vintages are intriguingly complex and satisfying. We capture the intense esters at the start of the spirit cut to give our Vintages the core characteristics of apricots, oranges, spices, floral notes and green apples. The heavier oils and lipids at the end of the cut are also captured, giving leathery, nutty and full-bodied characteristics. Our People: Every Balblair Vintage is strongly individual. Each a unique essence of a year, captured in a bottle. Every year, our Distillery Manager, John MacDonald, tastes, judges and selects straight from the cask. And at exactly the right moment, when the balance between the age and the character of the whisky is just right, we bottle it.	70cl	£ 225.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair – 1983 Vintage / 1st Release Country: Scotland Region: Highlands Age: 30 Years Old. Strength: 46% Summary: Matured in American oak ex-bourbon barrels, Balblair Vintage 1983 is a rich, warm dram, combining all core Balblair characteristics. Only just launched to replace the 2nd release of 1975 this stunning dram is sure to be just as popular as its predecessor. Appearance: The first release of Balblair 1983 has a rich golden appearance. Aroma: On the nose there are warm aromas of butterscotch, toffee and vanilla that come from the long years of maturation in American oak ex-bourbon barrels. Citrus fruits can also be detected in the aroma adding to the complexity of this exceptional Vintage. Taste: On the palate it is sweet and spicy; with overtones of fresh fruits and honey. Finish: A long, warming and full bodied finish.	70cl	£ 210.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair – 1990 Vintage / 2nd Release Country: Scotland Region: Highlands Age: 23 Year Old Strength: 46% Summary: Matured in American oak ex-bourbon casks and Spanish oak ex-sherry butts Balblair Vintage 1990 2nd release is truly exceptional. Recently released to replace our award-winning 1989 Vintage, this incredible dram is sure to become a firm favourite amongst Balblair fans and whisky connoisseurs. The second release of Balblair 1990 is deep copper in appearance with hints of sparkling amber. Matured in 2nd fill American oak ex-bourbon casks and 1st fill Spanish oak ex-sherry butts. The aroma is spicy yet sweet & is punctuated with notes of raisins, toffee & honey. Hints of vanilla, chocolate & citrus fruits are also present. On the palate it’s full bodied; sweet & spicy in character with hints of honey, raisins & zesty fruits. The finish is smooth & long lasting. BALBLAIR DISTILLERY Exclusively Vintage: Each Balblair Vintage captures the essence of its year in a bottle. They’re only ever selected at the absolute peak of perfection. Handpicked, to represent the very best our Distillery has to offer. You’ll notice our bottles are not marked with an age statement, but simply with the year that the whisky was laid down. From then, every cask is sampled, judged and selected by John MacDonald to find its optimum maturation point. The point at which each Vintage says it’s ready. Our Whisky: Every distillery is different. From its location and water source, to its still shape and wood policy. These are all determining factors in its ultimate outcome – its taste. Our Vintages are intriguingly complex and satisfying. We capture the intense esters at the start of the spirit cut to give our Vintages the core characteristics of apricots, oranges, spices, floral notes and green apples. The heavier oils and lipids at the end of the cut are also captured, giving leathery, nutty and full-bodied characteristics. Our People: Every Balblair Vintage is strongly individual. Each a unique essence of a year, captured in a bottle. Every year, our Distillery Manager, John MacDonald, tastes, judges and selects straight from the cask. And at exactly the right moment, when the balance between the age and the character of the whisky is just right, we bottle it.	70cl	£ 85.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair – 1997 Vintage / 2nd Release Country: Scotland Region: Highlands Age: 15 Year Old Strength: 46% Summary: This exceptionally well balanced dram has been maturing in first fill American oak, ex bourbon barrels since 1997. The 2nd release of 1997 is on track to secure just as many recognitions and awards as the first release. Balblair 1997, 2nd release is deep golden amber in appearance. On the nose there is an abundance of tropical fruits; bananas and pineapple, together with green apples, oranges and apricots. Hints of honey, vanilla and butterscotch can also be detected. The taste is initially sweet, yet spicy and full bodied, which reflects the time spent maturing in first fill American, ex bourbon oak barrels. There is a long, spicy finish to this exceptionally well balanced, yet complex Vintage. BALBLAIR DISTILLERY Exclusively Vintage: Each Balblair Vintage captures the essence of its year in a bottle. They’re only ever selected at the absolute peak of perfection. Handpicked, to represent the very best our Distillery has to offer. You’ll notice our bottles are not marked with an age statement, but simply with the year that the whisky was laid down. From then, every cask is sampled, judged and selected by John MacDonald to find its optimum maturation point. The point at which each Vintage says it’s ready. Our Whisky: Every distillery is different. From its location and water source, to its still shape and wood policy. These are all determining factors in its ultimate outcome – its taste. Our Vintages are intriguingly complex and satisfying. We capture the intense esters at the start of the spirit cut to give our Vintages the core characteristics of apricots, oranges, spices, floral notes and green apples. The heavier oils and lipids at the end of the cut are also captured, giving leathery, nutty and full-bodied characteristics. Our People: Every Balblair Vintage is strongly individual. Each a unique essence of a year, captured in a bottle. Every year, our Distillery Manager, John MacDonald, tastes, judges and selects straight from the cask. And at exactly the right moment, when the balance between the age and the character of the whisky is just right, we bottle it.	70cl	£ 55.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair – 2002 Vintage / 1st Release Country: Scotland Region: Highlands Age: 10 Year Old Strength: 46% Summary: Released in July 2012, Balblair Vintage 2002 displays signature Balblair aromas; floral and fragrant with zesty fruits such as oranges and lemons. The first release of Balblair 2002 is sparkling gold in colour. On the nose there are the signature Balblair aromas; floral and fragrant with zesty fruits such as oranges and lemons. The American oak, ex-bourbon barrels used in maturation impart toffee and vanilla notes. On the palate it is full bodied, yet sweet and spicy in character, with hints of oranges, lemons, green apples, toffee and vanilla. There is a typical long finish as the floral and fruit notes develop and combine with the initial spice and sweetness from the American oak casks. BALBLAIR DISTILLERY Exclusively Vintage: Each Balblair Vintage captures the essence of its year in a bottle. They’re only ever selected at the absolute peak of perfection. Handpicked, to represent the very best our Distillery has to offer. You’ll notice our bottles are not marked with an age statement, but simply with the year that the whisky was laid down. From then, every cask is sampled, judged and selected by John MacDonald to find its optimum maturation point. The point at which each Vintage says it’s ready. Our Whisky: Every distillery is different. From its location and water source, to its still shape and wood policy. These are all determining factors in its ultimate outcome – its taste. Our Vintages are intriguingly complex and satisfying. We capture the intense esters at the start of the spirit cut to give our Vintages the core characteristics of apricots, oranges, spices, floral notes and green apples. The heavier oils and lipids at the end of the cut are also captured, giving leathery, nutty and full-bodied characteristics. Our People: Every Balblair Vintage is strongly individual. Each a unique essence of a year, captured in a bottle. Every year, our Distillery Manager, John MacDonald, tastes, judges and selects straight from the cask. And at exactly the right moment, when the balance between the age and the character of the whisky is just right, we bottle it.	70cl	£ 42.50 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair – 2003 Vintage / 1st Release Country: Scotland Region: Highlands Age: 10 Year Old Strength: 46% Summary: Launched alongside 1990 & 1983 in November 2013, Balblair Vintage 2003 replaces Vintage 2002. The American oak, ex-bourbon barrels used in maturation impart toffee, butterscotch and vanilla notes. Vintage Highland 2003 Single Malt Whisky, 1st Release. 2nd fill American oak, ex-Bourbon barrels used in maturation impart toffee, butterscotch & vanilla notes. On the nose there are the signature Balblair aromas: floral & fragrant punctuated with citrus fruits, apricots & honey. On the palate it is full bodied, with notes of orange, lemon, honey & spice. The long lasting finish is sweet yet spicy: a superbly well balanced dram. On the palate it is full bodied, yet sweet and spicy in character, with hints of oranges, lemons, green apples, toffee and vanilla. There is a typical long finish as the floral and fruit notes develop and combine with the initial spice and sweetness from the American oak casks. BALBLAIR DISTILLERY Exclusively Vintage: Each Balblair Vintage captures the essence of its year in a bottle. They’re only ever selected at the absolute peak of perfection. Handpicked, to represent the very best our Distillery has to offer. You’ll notice our bottles are not marked with an age statement, but simply with the year that the whisky was laid down. From then, every cask is sampled, judged and selected by John MacDonald to find its optimum maturation point. The point at which each Vintage says it’s ready. Our Whisky: Every distillery is different. From its location and water source, to its still shape and wood policy. These are all determining factors in its ultimate outcome – its taste. Our Vintages are intriguingly complex and satisfying. We capture the intense esters at the start of the spirit cut to give our Vintages the core characteristics of apricots, oranges, spices, floral notes and green apples. The heavier oils and lipids at the end of the cut are also captured, giving leathery, nutty and full-bodied characteristics. Our People: Every Balblair Vintage is strongly individual. Each a unique essence of a year, captured in a bottle. Every year, our Distillery Manager, John MacDonald, tastes, judges and selects straight from the cask. And at exactly the right moment, when the balance between the age and the character of the whisky is just right, we bottle it.	70cl	£ 40.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Kilchoman – Loch Gorm 2014 Country: Scotland Region: Islay Age: 5 Year Old Strength: 46% Summary: Named after a famously peaty loch at the end of the Kilchoman drive, Loch Gorm is the only fully ex-sherry cask matured release from Kilchoman. As with other ranges in our portfolio, Loch Gorm will be periodically re-released as a more mature expression. Each bottling will be differentiated by distillation and bottling years printed on the label. Loch Gorm combines rich sherry fruits and spices with smouldering peat, cloves and lingering sweetness. The Loch Gorm was filled into fresh Oloroso sherry butts in 2009 and bottled in spring 2014. This full ex-sherry cask maturation creates a unique balance of classic Kilchoman character and rich Oloroso sherry influence. Nose: Mixed preserved fruit, particularly lemon and rich peat smoke. Palate: Dry cereal flavour develops into honey and biscuit with lingering peat. Finish: Rich, sweet and smoky.	70cl	£ 59.50 BUY NOW

New Highland, Islay, Japanese & Speyside Malts From Abbey Whisky!

April 8, 2014 by Gary Leave a Comment

Supplier	Brand	Bottle Size	Price
Abbey Whisky	Abbey Whisky 30 Year Old Speyside Gift Set Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 30 Years Old Strength: 43%	10cl	£ 28.50 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Ardbeg 10 Year Old / SMWS Single Cask 33.91 Country: Scotland Region: Islay Age: 10 Years Old Strength: 64.4% Vintage: 2000 Bottler: The Scotch Malt Whisky Society	70cl	£ 295.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Balblair 1983 Vintage / 1st Release Country: Scotland Region: Highland Age: Strength: 46% Vintage: 1983 Bottler: Balblair	70cl	£ 208.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Balblair 2003 Vintage / 1st Release Country: Scotland Region: Highland Age: Strength: 46% Vintage: 2003 Bottler: Balblair	70cl	£ 43.75 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Glen Garioch 1999 / Sherry Cask Matured / Batch 30 Country: Scotland Region: Highland Age: Strength: 56.3% Vintage: 1999 Bottler: Glen Garioch	70cl	£ 59.95 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Glencadam 22 Year Old / The Rare Casks / Release 4 Country: Scotland Region: Highland Age: 22 Years Old Strength: 55.3% Vintage: 1991 Bottler: Abbey Whisky	70cl	£ 76.95 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Glenfiddich 1976 / La Grande Epicerie Paris / Cask #16392 Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: Strength: 47.0% Vintage: 1976 Bottler: Glenfiddich	70cl	£ 740.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Glenlivet 1982 / 30 Year Old / Cask 6669 Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 30 Years Old Strength: 52.5% Vintage: 1982 Bottler: Berry Bros & Rudd	70cl	£ 128.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Nikka 1990 Single Cask 223619 / 10 Year Old Country: Japan Region: Japanese Age: 10 Years Old Strength: 61.2% Vintage: 1990 Bottler: Nikka	75cl	£ 295.00 BUY NOW

Edencroft – New Balblair, Laphroaig, Macallan & Mosstowie Malts!

March 6, 2014 by Gary Leave a Comment

The New Balblair Malt From Edencrofts

Edencroft has 4 New additions to it’s range this week with whiskies from the Highlands, Islay and Speyside regions.

The brands include Balblair, Laphroaig, Macallan and Mosstowie and are aged between 14 and 33 Years Old.

Supplier	Brand	Bottle Size	Price
Edencroft	Balblair – 1983 1st Release Country: Scotland Region: Highlands Age: Strength: 46% Summary: Matured in American oak ex-bourbon barrels, Balblair Vintage 1983 is a rich, warm dram, combining all core Balblair characteristics. Only just launched to replace the 2nd release of 1975 this stunning dram is sure to be just as popular as its predecessor. Appearance: The first release of Balblair 1983 has a rich golden appearance. Aroma: On the nose there are warm aromas of butterscotch, toffee and vanilla that come from the long years of maturation in American oak ex-bourbon barrels. Citrus fruits can also be detected in the aroma adding to the complexity of this exceptional Vintage. Taste: On the palate it is sweet and spicy; with overtones of fresh fruits and honey. Finish: A long, warming and full bodied finish.	70cl	£ 195.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Laphroaig – Old Malt Cask 14 Year Old Edition Country: Scotland Region: Islay Age: 14 Year Old Strength: 50% Summary: Cask: Refill Hogshead DL No: 9227. Bottles from Cask: 311. Distilled: Oct 1998. Bottled: Dec 2012. Nose: opens sweetly – then catch is "ocean" – peat & tar. Taste: still phenolic & sweet + spices – chimney soot & iodine. Finish: "bandaged" – still peated/sweet – tarry & spiced. Buy any two bottles from our current Old Malt Cask range (listed on our Blog http://edencroft.blogspot.co.uk/) and receive a bottle of 13 Year Old Malt Cask Cragganmore FREE (worth £70.00).	70cl	£ 95.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Macallan – Old Malt Cask 25 Year Old/15th Anniversary Edition Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 25 Year Old Strength: 51.4% Summary: To conclude a very rewarding year for me, professionally and personally, Hunter Laing & Co Ltd. is releasing two special new lines. The first of these is an Anniversary series of six casks, bottled to celebrate fifteen years of our flagship Old Malt Cask brand. Together with my sons Scott and Andrew, as well as our Master Blender Tom Aitken, I have selected casks from our maturing stocks which each do justice to the labels fifteen year milestone. These cask-strength Anniversary bottlings are presented in green glass with wooden gift boxes, and are finished in the original-style labels to pay homage to the earliest Old Malt Cask releases. Choosing these casks allowed me to reflect with pride on my last fifteen years as a single cask bottler and, in reviewing our stocks, to look forward with relish to the next fifteen years of the Old Malt Cask. Stuart Laing.	70cl	£ 440.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Mosstowie – 33 Year Old Gordon Macphail Rare Edition Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 33 Year Old Strength: 46% Summary: For over 25 years Miltonduff Distillery produced 2 different Single Malt Whiskies. In 1955 due to the increased demand within Hiram Walker for different styles of whisky, a chemical engineer, Alistair Cunningham designed the Lomond Still. This type of still had a wide neck which housed three rectifying plates. These plates were used to vary the amount of reflux that took place within the still thus altering the spirit produced. The plates could either be filled with cool liquid or left dry. They could be rotated – the horizontal position would maximise reflux while the vertical position would reduce reflux. Due to increased demand for Ballantines Blend in the 1980s, the Mosstowie stills were altered to produce Miltonduff – the key component of Ballantines. AROMA WITHOUT WATER: Freshly washed wool and hessian. With hints of polished oak, beeswax and orange peel. TASTE WITHOUT WATER: A sweet liquorice and aniseed flavour. Pepper and ash notes linger. AROMA WITH WATER: Creamy hot chocolate aromas with spiced orange and cardamom notes. TASTE WITH WATER: Cinnamon and Clove influences with hints of Cedar wood.	70cl	£ 485.00 BUY NOW

The Cheshire Whisky Event 2014 – Tickets Available Now!

January 17, 2014 by Gary Leave a Comment

The Cheshire Whisky Event 2014 – Tickets Available Now!

The 5th Annual Cheshire Whisky Event is the whisky tasting and sampling event of the year and will be taking place on Monday May 5th 2014 at Willington Hall, Cheshire.

Willington Hall is justly famous for its unrivalled views across the Cheshire countryside and magnificent sunsets behind the Welsh mountains. Willington Hall stands in 17 acres of award winning formal gardens and parklands.

The Hall makes a perfect setting for the Cheshire Whisky Event which appeals to both the enthusiast and the novice alike.

The event aims to provide the ultimate whisky experience with expert advice on hand and the opportunity to learn about the whisky basics.

In short, there is something for all!

The Cheshire Whisky Event gives you the unique opportunity to sample some of the greatest whiskies in the world and get a great chance to mingle with whisky producers, distillers and marketers.

EXHIBITORS: Each year The Cheshire Whisky Event brings a different balance of exhibitors, however, one thing that is guaranteed is a selection of the greatest whiskies in the world!

Distilleries taking part (so far):

BenRiach
GlenDronach
Old Pulteney
AnConc
Paul John
anCnoc
Balblair
Dalmore
Douglas Laing
Hunter Laing
Bruichladdich
Compass Box
Hi Spirits Bourbons
Nikka

MASTER CLASSES: These tutored tastings provide a unique insight into the world of whisky and a fantastic chance to ask all those hidden questions.
You have up to an hour of intense time learning more about your favourite whiskies.
Many of the Master classes are dedicated to one brand or expression, presented by brand ambassadors, master distillers, leading experts or Whisky Magazine writers, the Whisky Taste Master classes always guarantee a memorable experience.

Taste and discover great whiskies at The Cheshire Whisky Event 2014

TASTINGS: It’s all about the taste!
And at the 2014 event you will have a un-rivalled opportunity to taste and discover great whiskies.
From the classic ranges you may have sampled before to rare and exclusive bottling’s.

Exhibitors are always on hand to talk (and drink) you through their range whiskies providing invaluable knowledge and experience.

If you’re new to whisky or a seasoned expert, there is something for everyone to try at The Cheshire Whisky Event.

ADMISSION PRICE: £25.00 per person (tickets available from this link), this includes all samples and admission to one Master Class.

Date: Monday 5th May 2014

Venue: Willington Hall – Willington – Tarporley – CW6 0NB

Time: 11am – 5pm

More information can be obtained from Mark at:-
EDENCROFT FINE WINES
8-10 Hospital Street
NANTWICH
Cheshire
CW5 5RJ

www.edencroft.co.uk

Tel: 01270 629 975
Mob: 07974 650 998

Edencroft – New Balblair, Knockando & Old Pulteney Arrivals!

October 22, 2013 by Gary Leave a Comment

Edencroft has 6 New additions to it’s range this week with whiskies from the Highlands, Lowland and Speyside regions.

The brands include Balblair, Knockando & Old Pulteney.

The ages of the new whiskies range from 10 to 45 Year Old malts.

Supplier	Brand	Bottle Size	Price
Edencroft	Caledonian Grain Whisky – Clan Denny 45 Year Old Edition Country: Scotland Region: Lowland Age: 45 Years Strength: 47.30% Summary: Cask No: HH7501. Bottles from Cask: Distilled: 1965. Bottled: Nose: a curious though not unpleasant mix of bourbon whisky warehouse and my dad’s old-train imbued clothes in the early 60’s after he got in from work …; Taste: a Kentuckian character from the moment it touches the lips; the sugars are delicate and diverse, the liquorice building in boldness. By the midway point the sugars have moved into fully-fledged honey’s; light and brain-exploding complex; Finish: a wee bitter note from tired oak. But that is outflanked by those oils carrying a gorgeous fruit and nut character and vanilla to die for; Balance: anyone who managed to get their hands on the very oldest maturing stocks of Barton bourbon from twenty years ago (and there were very few of us who managed it) would recognise it immediately. The similarities are uncanny. © Jim Murrays – 2013 Whisky Bible.	70cl	£ 135.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Carsebridge Grain Whisky – Clan Denny 45 Year Old Edition Country: Scotland Region: Lowland Age: 45 Years Strength: 44.70% Summary: Cask No: HH7500. Bottles from Cask: Distilled: 1965. Bottled: Nose: absolutely no doubting the corn used in this whisky: a gentle honeyed cross between a Canadian and bourbon, alternating in intensity between the two styles; Taste: the delivery comes down firmly in the bourbon camp; or perhaps I should say softly but decidedly: the oils are sumptuous yet feather-light, the sugars no more than sprinkled; Finish: warm; Balance: and now we have so often seen in Kentucky and Canada, old grains maturing in high quality casks rank amongst the best whiskies in the world: here is a stunning example. © Jim Murrays – 2013 Whisky Bible.	70cl	£ 130.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair – 1990 Vintage/2nd Release Country: Scotland Region: Highlands Age: 23 Year Old Strength: 46% Summary: Vintage Highland 1990 Single Malt, 2nd Release. Matured in 2nd fill American oak ex-bourbon casks and 1st fill Spanish oak ex-sherry butts. The aroma is spicy yet sweet & is punctuated with notes of raisins, toffee & honey. Hints of vanilla, chocolate & citrus fruits are also present. On the palate it’s full bodied; sweet & spicy in character with hints of honey, raisins & zesty fruits. The finish is smooth & long lasting. This product will be available for delivery after the 16th November.	70cl	£ 80.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair – 2003 Vintage/1st Release Country: Scotland Region: Highlands Age: 10 Year Old Strength: 46% Summary: Vintage Highland 2003 Single Malt Whisky, 1st Release. 2nd fill American oak, ex-Bourbon barrels used in maturation impart toffee, butterscotch & vanilla notes. On the nose there are the signature Balblair aromas: floral & fragrant punctuated with citrus fruits, apricots & honey. On the palate it is full bodied, with notes of orange, lemon, honey & spice. The long lasting finish is sweet yet spicy: a superbly well balanced dram. On the palate it is full bodied, yet sweet and spicy in character, with hints of oranges, lemons, green apples, toffee and vanilla. There is a typical long finish as the floral and fruit notes develop and combine with the initial spice and sweetness from the American oak casks. This product will be available for delivery after the 16th November.	70cl	£ 37.50 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Knockando – 12 Year Old Managers Choice/sherry Cask Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 12 Year Old Strength: 58.50% Summary: Nose: I think my staff have poured me the wrong stuff: they’ve opened up some pot still Demerara, right …? Wrong. No definitely from the Knockando sample. Well, well, well …let’s just say it’s a fruity, sugary, rich start on the nose …; Taste: Actually, I don’t care if this is rum or whisky. When you get flavours this beautifully defined, a body this sublimely structure …it really doesn’t much matter. Oozes fruity, beautifully natural sweetened quality and complexity; Finish: A slight bitterness on the finish where, for the first time, there is a minor blemish, but the array of sugars still make for something memorable …and absolutely 100% nothing like I have tasted from any previous Knockando …; Balance: I have been in the Demerara region Guyana, crawled around a rum warehouse at a rum distillery and opened a cask of rum which has less rum characteristics than this rumbustuous chappie. Quite a rum do. © Jim Murrays – 2012 Whisky Bible.	70cl	£ 215.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Old Pulteney – 1990 Vintage Country: Scotland Region: Highlands Age: 23 Year Old Strength: 46% Summary: Old Pulteney 1990 has been matured in hand selected American oak ex-Bourbon barrels and Spanish oak ex-Sherry butts. The casks previously held heavily peated malt which gives this Vintage a slight smoky character. Appearance: Polished amber. Aroma: Subtle, warm wood smoke envelopes the sweetness of peardrops & crunchy green apples. Fragrant floral notes, fresh lemon zest & honey are followed by a spicy & fruity touch of ex-sherry casks. Taste: Full bodied & rich. The initial sweet honey note is quickly followed by a wave of thick peat smoke, joined a moment later by a spicy vanilla, toffee & rum smoked raisins. This product will be available for delivery after the 16th November.	70cl	£ 110.00 BUY NOW

Abbey Whisky – New Malts At Great Prices!

July 22, 2013 by Gary Leave a Comment

Abbey Whisky has 17 New additions to it’s range this week with whiskies from regions and / or countries such as: Highland, Island, Islay, Speyside and Swedish.

The brands include ABERLOUR, BALBLAIR, DALLAS DHU, GLEN ELGIN, GLENDRONACH, GLENLIVET, ISLE OF JURA, LAPHROAIG, MACALLAN & MACKMYRA.

The ages of the new whiskies range from 8 to 21 Year Old malts.

Supplier	Brand	Bottle Size	Price
Abbey Whisky	Aberlour 16 Year Old / 1996 / Single Cask 5812 Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 16 Years Old Strength: 54.8% Vintage: 1996 Bottler: Aberlour	70cl	£ 128.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Aberlour 16 Year Old / 1996 / Single Cask 6374 Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 16 Years Old Strength: 58.2% Vintage: 1996 Bottler: Aberlour	70cl	£ 128.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Aberlour Bicentenary / 12 Year Old / Sherry Cask Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 12 Years Old Strength: 56.8%	70cl	£ 125.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Balblair 1990 / Single Cask 1463 Country: Scotland Region: Highland Age: Strength: 54.1% Vintage: 1990 Bottler: Balblair	70cl	£ 198.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Dallas Dhu 1982 / 2008 / Gordon & MacPhail Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: Strength: 40% Vintage: 1982 Bottler: Gordon & MacPhail	70cl	£ 198.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Glen Elgin 14 Year Old / Christmas 1990 Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 14 Years Old Strength: 43%	75cl	£ 690.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Glendronach 1991 / 21 Year Old / Cask 5409 / Batch 8 Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 21 Years Old Strength: 49.8% Vintage: 1991 Bottler: GlenDronach Distillery	70cl	£ 100.90 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Glendronach 1992 / 21 Year Old / Cask 145 / Batch 8 Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 21 Years Old Strength: 58.1% Vintage: 1992 Bottler: GlenDronach Distillery	70cl	£ 100.90 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Glendronach 1993 / 20 Year Old / Cask 3 / Batch 8 Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 20 Years Old Strength: 52.9% Vintage: 1993 Bottler: GlenDronach Distillery	70cl	£ 92.50 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Glendronach 1996 / 17 Year Old / Cask 1490 / Batch 8 Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 17 Years Old Strength: 53.1% Vintage: 1996 Bottler: GlenDronach Distillery	70cl	£ 78.95 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Glenlivet Guardians / 18 Year Old / Single Cask 2911 Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 18 Years Old Strength: 55.7%	70cl	£ 150.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Jura Boutique Barrels / Diurachs Exclusive Country: Scotland Region: Island Age: Strength: 57% Vintage: 1995 Bottler: Distillery Bottling	70cl	£ 150.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Laphroaig Highgrove, 2009 Bottling, Cask 143 Country: Scotland Region: Islay Age: 12 Years Old Strength: 46% Vintage: 1997 Bottler: Laphroaig	70cl	£ 148.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Macallan 60th Anniversary Queens Coronation Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: Strength:	35cl (2)	£ 950.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Mackmyra The First Edition / Swedish Whisky Country: Sweden Region: Swedish Age: Strength: 46.1%	70cl	£ 46.80 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	Sixty Squadron Anniversary Malt (Gordon & MacPhail) Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 8 Years Old Strength: 40%	70cl	£ 126.00 BUY NOW
Abbey Whisky	The Tweeddale Batch Three / 12 Year Old Country: Scotland Region: Scotch Whisky Age: 12 Years Old Strength: 46%	70cl	£ 39.20 BUY NOW

The Latest Whisky Stock From Edencrofts!

June 10, 2013 by Gary Leave a Comment

Edencroft has 10 New additions to it’s range this week with whiskies from regions and / or countries such as: American, Highland, Irish, Islay and Speyside.

The brands include Ardbeg, Balblair and Glendronach.

The ages of the new whiskies range from 10 to 36 Year Old malts.

Supplier	Brand	Bottle Size	Price
Edencroft	Wasmunds – Single Malt Whisky Country: American Region: American Age: Strength: 48% Summary: Combines the best of the grand tradition of single malt whisky with creative and unique innovations for aging and flavoring that result in a special spirit that has no peer. At Copper Fox Distillery, we are the only distillery in North America to hand malt our own barley, and the only distillery on the planet to use apple and cherry wood smoke to flavor the malted barley. Our single batch copper potstill produces one barrel at a time and the spirit is non-chill filtered to preserve the complete flavor and essence of the barley grain.	70cl	£ 40.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Connemara – Turf MÃ³r Single Malt Country: Irish Region: Irish Age: Strength: 58.20% Summary: The Peatiest expression of an Irish Peated Single Malt ever bottled. This super premium whiskey is bottled at Cask strength with no chill filtration, providing consumers seeking heavily Peated Single Malts a new taste opportunity. Nose: ungent mixture of Salt, Smoke, Spice, Sweet all at once. Taste: Very Sweet with an explosion of peat on the tongue, lifting to fresh cut turf. Finish: Dry finish with spice giving way to oak and more peat.	70cl	£ 55.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Shackletons Whisky – Mackinlays Rare Old Highland Malt Country: Scotland Region: Highland Age: Strength: 47.30% Summary: Whyte & Mackay has successfully recreated the century-old whisky buried under the Antarctic ice by famous explorer Ernest Shackleton. The company’s master blender Richard Paterson spent a painstaking eight weeks marrying and blending a range of malts to get an exact replica of the 100-year-old Mackinlay’s liquid. And according to one independent expert, he has got the copy exactly right. Renowned whisky writer Dave Broom is the only other person in the world to taste both the original whisky and Whyte & Mackay’s new liquid. He said: “The Shackleton whisky is not what I expected at all, and not what anyone would have expected. It’s so light, so fresh, so delicate and still in one piece – it’s a gorgeous whisky.” “It proves that even way back then so much care, attention and thought went into whisky-making.” “I think the replication is absolutely bang on. Richard has done a great job as it’s a very tricky whisky to replicate, because you have this delicacy, subtlety and the smoke just coming through.” “The sweetness, fragrance and spice, and the subtle smoke, are all there in the replica. I’m blown away.” The Shackleton replica will cost £100, with 5% from every sale being donated back to the Antarctic Heritage Trust, the New Zealand charity responsible for finding and uncovering the original whisky. If all 50,000 bottles sell out the Trust will receive £250,000. Trust chief executive Nigel Watson said: “From start to finish it’s taken almost four years to safely extract the whisky crate from site and then Antarctica, thaw it in museum conditions, secure permits and complete scientific analysis in Scotland . I am delighted that Whyte & Mackay recognise the hard work and value of the Trust’s conservation mission in Antarctica by making this very generous and welcome donation." Richard Paterson said that matching the whisky really tested his blending skills, but it was a true labour of love. “It was a real privilege getting to handle, nose and taste such a rare and beautiful bottle of whisky. The quality, purity and taste of this 100-year-old spirit was amazing. The biggest surprise was the light flavour and the clear, almost vibrant colour of the liquid. I hope I have done our forefathers and Ernest Shackleton proud with the replica. I would like to thank the Trust in particular for their patience, their expertise and their hard work. They fully deserve the substantial funds this special bottle will generate.” Tasting Notes: The replica Mackinlay contains whisky from a range of highland malts, including Glen Mhor, which was the original Mackinlay’s distillery before it closed in 1983. The 47.3% ABV whisky has a light honey and straw gold colour with shimmering highlights. The nose is soft, elegant and refined with delicate aromas of crushed apple, pear and fresh pineapple. It has a whisper of marmalade, cinnamon and a tease of smoke, ginger and muscovado sugar. The generous strength of the 47.3% whisky, believed to be high to stop the alcohol freezing, gives plenty of impact, but in a mild and warming way. It has whispers of gentle bonfire smoke slowly giving way to spicy rich toffee, treacle and pecan nuts.	70cl	£ 95.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Ardbeg – Corryvreckan Single Malt Country: Scotland Region: Islay Age: Strength: 57.1% Summary: Corryvreckan takes its name from the famous whirlpool that lies to the north of Islay, where only the bravest souls dare to venture. Swirling aromas and torrents of deep, peaty, peppery taste lurk beneath the surface of this beautifully balanced dram. Like the whirlpool itself, Corryvreckan is not for the faint-hearted! Colour: Deepest amber. Aroma: Heady, intense and powerful. With the first sniff, encounter the deep and turbulent force of Corryvreckan as it pulls you inwards. Swirl the glass and dip your nose into the torrents of tarry ropes, creosote and linseed oil rising from deep within the vortex. As you succumb to its power, a collision of waxy dark chocolate, warm blackcurrants and muscovado sugar pulls you under its spell with a burst of plump cherries and earthy pine needles leaping from its depths. Swirl water into the glass, and observe the magical collision of whisky and water. As the liquid warms up, the seething cauldron bubbles and bursts, as you edge closer to sniff a pot full of gutsy cayenne-peppered steak and oysters smothered in hot pepper sauce. Salty seasoning brings a briny character with tangy crisp seaweed and smoky bacon swirling on the surface with hints of sweet vanilla, spicy cloves and blueberries. As the whirlpool narrows and quickens moving ever deeper, surrender to its dangerous depths with the heady force of menthol, treacle and chilli sauce. Taste: Plunge into the whirlpool and taste the mysterious depths of Corryvreckan. Torrents of taste well up on the palate; deep, peppery and chewy, bombarding the tongue with its intense tastes and textures. The first plunge brings forth chewy peppered steak soaked in pepper sauce with the tang of crispy seaweed. As you descend deeper, encounter a mouthful of black tarry espresso coffee that coats the palate with rich melted dark fruits (blackcurrants, blueberries and cherries) and bitter almonds. As the taste soaks in deeper, star anise and hickory dry out the palate before a surprise of chalky effervescent violets fizz to the surface. Finish: Long, deep and remaining powerful into the finish with black tarry coffee, chocolate coated cherries and hot pepper sauce, the lingering memories of your mysterious and daring journey into Corryvreckan.	70cl	£ 57.50 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Ardbeg – Uigeadail Single Malt Whisky Country: Scotland Region: Islay Age: Strength: 54.20% Summary: In 2009, Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible named Ardbeg Uigeadail ‘World Whisky of the Year’ – in praise of its “utter silky brilliance” and “complexity on a level only a handful of distilleries in the world can even dream of reaching.” Ardbeg Uigeadail (pronounced ‘Oog-a-dal’) is a special vatting that marries Ardbeg’s traditional deep, smoky notes with luscious, raisiny tones of old ex-Sherry casks. Its non chill-filtered at high strength, which retains maximum flavour and gives more body and added depth. Colour: Deepest gold. Aroma: Rich and weighty with heady and smoky aromatics, this expression of Ardbeg is both intensely flavoured and perfectly integrated. At full strength, the initial aroma is a beguiling mix of warm Christmas cake, walnut oil and parma violets fused with fresh ocean spice, cedar and pine needles falling from the Christmas tree. A smouldering smoky coal fire and the deep scent of well-oiled leather brings warmth to the scene. The sweetness of treacle toffees and chocolate-coated raisins bring indulgence through the smoke. With water, the deep smokiness increases in intensity, reminiscent of a Christmas pudding on fire. Tarry smoke and diesel engine oil enter the room bringing smells of an age gone by. Rich flowering currants and warm baked banana and walnut bread are served with simmering mocha espresso. Taste: Full flavoured and rich with a deep mouth-coating texture, the taste is an intriguing balance between sweet, spicy and deep smoky flavours. The flavour is initially sweet as Christmas cake begins to soak into the tongue. A burst of winter spices sets off a smoky-spicy explosion countered by a sumptuous mid-palate of honey glazed smoked food and chewy treacle. Waves of deep smoky tones and rich aromas build up on the palate like a fine Montecristo cigar. Finish: Amazingly long and chewy with lingering raisiny, deep mocha tones and rich aromatic smoke into the perfectly integrated finish.	70cl	£ 47.50 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair – 1975 Vintage/2nd Release Country: Scotland Region: Highlands Age: 36 Year Old Strength: 46% Summary: The second release of Balblair 1975 is a rich gold colour. Typically fresh yet full bodied, this fine Balblair vintage displays aromas of citrus fruits, vanilla, toffee and coconut. The American oak ex-sherry casks used in maturation impart a rich and sweet vanilla flavour. On the palate it is sweet and spicy; fresh fruits and honey combine with a slightly oaky note to create a long and warming finish.	70cl	£ 225.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair – 1989 Vintage/3rd Release Country: Scotland Region: Highlands Age: 23 Year Old Strength: 46% Summary: The third release of Balblair 1989 is subtly amber in appearance with rose gold highlights. A full bodied malt with aromas of raisin, green apples and hints of banana and lemon. The American oak, ex bourbon casks used in the maturation lend a warm toffee vanilla fragrance. On the palate there are raisins and fruits with rich spiciness leading to a long, complex and ultimately smooth finish.	70cl	£ 85.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair – 1997 Vintage/2nd Release Country: Scotland Region: Highlands Age: 15 Year Old Strength: 46% Summary: Balblair 1997, 2nd release is deep golden amber in appearance. On the nose there is an abundance of tropical fruits; bananas and pineapple, together with green apples, oranges and apricots. Hints of honey, vanilla and butterscotch can also be detected. The taste is initially sweet, yet spicy and full bodied, which reflects the time spent maturing in first fill American, ex bourbon oak barrels. There is a long, spicy finish to this exceptionally well balanced, yet complex Vintage.	70cl	£ 55.00 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Balblair – 2002 Vintage/1st Release Country: Scotland Region: Highlands Age: 10 Year Old Strength: 46% Summary: The first release of Balblair 2002 is sparkling gold in colour. On the nose there are the signature Balblair aromas; floral and fragrant with zesty fruits such as oranges and lemons. The American oak, ex-bourbon barrels used in maturation impart toffee and vanilla notes. On the palate it is full bodied, yet sweet and spicy in character, with hints of oranges, lemons, green apples, toffee and vanilla. There is a typical long finish as the floral and fruit notes develop and combine with the initial spice and sweetness from the American oak casks.	70cl	£ 39.50 BUY NOW
Edencroft	Glendronach – 18 Year Old Single Cask Country: Scotland Region: Speyside Age: 18 Year Old. Strength: 55.1% Summary: Cask Size and Type: Pedro Ximenez – Sherry Puncheon. Cask #: 3547. Colour: Polished cherry wood. Nose: Creamy chocolate rum-raisins are perfectly spiced by a hint of sweet chilli. A gentle apple and barley note rounds off the nose. Taste: Beautifully sweet peppery spices roll to chocolate fudge cake and waves of vanilla pod, ending in a delicate mint and stewed barley finish.	70cl	£ 80.00 BUY NOW

Master of Malt Exclusive: A Single Cask Peated Scotch Whisky from the Balblair Distillery

March 27, 2013 by Gary Leave a Comment

Master of Malt Exclusive: A Single Cask, Peated Scotch Whisky from the Balblair Distillery

Master of Malt has released an Exclusive Single Cask, Peated Whisky from the Balblair Distillery in Scotland: Balblair 1990 Islay Cask 1466.

Balbair Whisky Distillery in the Highland region of Scotland has produced a limited-edition bottling of a peated whisky. Typical of the regional style, this Highland whisky provides a soft sweetness balanced with a smooth and subtle smokiness.

This Single Cask Scotch Whisky has acquired its smoky flavour through non-traditional methods. Instead of producing a spirit made from peated barley, Balblair distillers chose to mature this special bottling in casks that had previously held an Islay Whisky.
Thus, the warm, peaty flavours have permeated the classic honeyed sweetness to produce a single malt which is unlike any other.

Distilled in 1990, this ultra-rare Single Cask Whisky was aged in Cask 1466, an American Oak Barrel which previously held an Islay Single Malt Whisky.

Tasting Notes from MOM: Balblair 1990 Islay Cask 1466 – 50.40% – £124.95

Nose: What the deuce? Some kind of trick, surely. This smells overwhelmingly, potently, of delicious, freshly squeezed apple juice. Copella Apple Juice to be precise. One of the most sweet, and fruity whiskies we’ve come across in a long time. The Bourbon cask has clearly had some influence here. Given time in the glass, there is a development of very subtle peat, which complements without ever being intrusive. A touch of cinnamon and brown sugar to go with the apple. Lovely Stuff.

Palate: Following an initial hit of mid-80’s tuck-shop sweetness (Refreshers of both sorts – chewy and chalky), the peat is immediately apparent here. Becomes much more savoury than the nose and initial palate would suggest. Initial short-crust pastry notes (buttery, too) are fleeting, giving way to caramelised bananas, and a touch of Nasturtium leaf. Becomes more grown-up than the nose hinted. The best of both worlds?

Finish: Herbaceous. Mint, and parsley give way to the seam of peat, which given time becomes more menthol than phenol. Hints (but only hints) of bitumen and ash meld into one delicious, fruity, gristy, meaty ‘ball’.

Overall: This whisky has got that rare ‘x-factor’ which can only be described as ‘huge’, and very ‘spherical’. It starts sweet as you like on the nose, but the palate and finish progress beyond the simplicity that can sometimes be implicit with that term, and meld together into a seamless experience of mouth-filling flavour. Nothing is missing here, everything is balanced. Great Whisky.

Sampling Two New Whisky Exchange ‘Exclusives’ – Balblair 2005 & Arran 1996 – Rare Summer Treats!

Tasting Notes – Balblair 2005 – Whisky Exchange Exclusive (46%)

Tasting Notes – Arran 1996: 24 Years Old – Whisky Exchange Exclusive (53.4%)

Edencrofts New anCnoc & Balblair Arrivals – Did Someone Mention Xmas?!

New Balblair & Kilchoman Malts From Edencrofts!

New Highland, Islay, Japanese & Speyside Malts From Abbey Whisky!

Edencroft – New Balblair, Laphroaig, Macallan & Mosstowie Malts!

The Cheshire Whisky Event 2014 – Tickets Available Now!

Edencroft – New Balblair, Knockando & Old Pulteney Arrivals!

Abbey Whisky – New Malts At Great Prices!

The Latest Whisky Stock From Edencrofts!

Master of Malt Exclusive: A Single Cask Peated Scotch Whisky from the Balblair Distillery

Tasting Notes from MOM: Balblair 1990 Islay Cask 1466 – 50.40% – £124.95

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Tasting Notes – Balblair 2005 – Whisky Exchange Exclusive (46%)

Tasting Notes – Arran 1996: 24 Years Old – Whisky Exchange Exclusive (53.4%)

Tasting Notes from MOM: Balblair 1990 Islay Cask 1466 – 50.40% – £124.95

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